Broomfield Library Starts Reading to Dogs Program

Elementary students build literacy skills by reading to therapy dogs every Thursday.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Dogs

Bold vector editorial illustration of an open storybook and a woolen dog cushion, symbolizing a child-friendly literacy program. — The Broomfield Public Library has kicked off its annual Reading to Dogs program, helping elementary students build literacy skills in a supportive, stress-free environment. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Broomfield Public Library launched the 17th season of its Reading to Dogs program on October 1, 2026. This initiative allows elementary-aged children to practice reading aloud to vetted therapy animals.

Why it matters

The program offers a non-stressful environment designed to help young students build confidence in their reading abilities. By providing a supportive space, the library aims to foster a lifelong positive association with books.

The program features three dogs vetted by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs and accommodates approximately 15 children per day. Each participant receives a 10-minute session to read to a dog and handler duo.

The players

Broomfield Public Library

This local municipal facility provides educational resources and programming to the Broomfield community.

Alliance of Therapy Dogs

This national organization provides registration, insurance, and support for therapy dog teams.

The details

During sessions, volunteers manage sign-in lists and assign children to specific dog and handler pairings. Younger participants in kindergarten are provided with stuffed dogs to cuddle while they practice their skills.

The 17th season of the program officially began on October 1, 2026.
Sessions are held every Thursday throughout the school year.

Culture Shift

The Reading to Dogs program's 17th season demonstrates the long-term sustainability of community-led literacy initiatives in public libraries. It reflects a growing trend of integrating therapy animals into educational environments to reduce student anxiety.

Families in Broomfield can register their elementary-aged children for 10-minute reading slots on Thursdays at the library. Kindergarten students can also participate by cuddling stuffed animals during their scheduled visits.

The takeaway

Engaging with therapy animals can significantly lower stress levels for children learning to read. Parents should check with library staff to ensure their child is signed into a designated time slot to secure a session with a dog.